Science Week

Come celebrate Sunday, April 26, 2026 through Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Two Flagler College students perform lab work.
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About

Welcome to Science Week, a series of colorful and exciting events that invite students and community members to learn about and join in the sciences at Flagler College! Meet keynote speaker, Gen Anderson, the General Curator at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, conduct research aboard a citizens' science boat field experience, help us tidy up area beaches, or sip champagne and watch a documentary showcasing student science and cinematic arts in Bermuda involving coral reef restoration and ship wreck ecology.

 Read on to find out what's in store. Note: Tickets are required for some events.

Keynote Speaker: St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park Curator, Gen Anderson

Picture of Gen Anderson

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park Curator, Gen Anderson – Keynote Speaker for Science Week Kickoff

"Why This Woman Wrangled a Croc: The Serious Science of Modern Zoos"

Gen Anderson is the General Curator at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, the only zoo in the world that houses all 24 species of crocodilians. She began working at the Alligator Farm in 2000 as a zookeeper in the Bird & Mammal Department. Over the years, she advanced through several roles, serving five years as Bird & Mammal Curator before being promoted to General Curator in 2014. In this role, she oversees the Animal Department, Conservation Education, and the zoo’s conservation and research programs.

Gen has also worked at three other zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. In 2011, she was honored at the Population Management Center Awards as Top Pedigree Detective for her work with the critically endangered Blue-throated Macaw.

Gen enjoys helping endangered species reproduce, supporting conservation projects worldwide, and solving complex historical animal data mysteries. She frequently speaks to large audiences about the science of modern zoos and conservation.

 

Events by Day

NAS Memorial Nature Cleanup Event

Locations: Ed McGinley FC Kayak Dock 20 max; Marine Science Club A Street Beach.

Time: 9:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.

*Open to the public, this is a free event, but registration is required.

To kick off Science Week, we invite members of the science department, friends, and supporters to join us for a Memorial Nature Clean-up. We will be removing debris and litter from the San Sebastian River as well as the beach to honor and remember those who have been taken from us too soon, including Hope Garrie Moorman ’22, a Coastal Environmental Science student who had a passion for the beach and her environment.

Registration Link Coming Soon!

Citizens Science Boat Field Experience with Dr. Ed McGinley

Location: Florida Water Tours-Camachee Cove-Vilano, 107 Yacht Club Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Time: 2:00 P.M. - 3:30 P.M.

*$60 adults, $20 children includes a donation to the Science Program.

Join us on the Great Blue Heron, a 48-person vessel, for a hands-on educational and family friendly experience. Scout for wildlife, conduct plankton sampling and water quality testing while learning about the local ecosystem and conservation. Food, wine, beer and refreshments will be provided aboard this spacious floating classroom.

Ticket Purchase Link Coming Soon!

Sponsored by: Florida Water Tours

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Tree Advisory Committee celebrates Arbor Day

Location: Kenan Lawn, north side of the pavilion

Time: 11:00 A.M.

Join in and help plant a redbud tree, “Cercis canadensis,” with Don Spence.

*This event is open to the public; no registration is required.

Science Week Kickoff Bermuda Ecology Documentary & Champagne Reception

Location: Ringhaver Student Center

Time: 5:00 P.M. - 6:30 P.M.

Join us as we launch two short documentaries that record the more than 10-year Research Study Abroad partnership between Bermuda and Flagler College. Hear from students and faculty about their work documenting and participating in this significant Field Research program involving coral reef restoration, ship wreck ecology, and mapping marine life in an underwater scuba diving class through Field Research Study Abroad in Bermuda. Champagne reception with snacks immediately following.

*This event is free and open to the public.

Registration Link Coming Soon!

Science Communication Student Showcase

Location: Ponce Hall Rotunda

Time: 9:30 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.

Join us as Dr. Doiron’s Science Communication students share their semester-long projects.

*This event is free and open to the public, no registration needed.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park Curator, Gen Anderson – Keynote Speaker for Science Week Kickoff

"Why This Woman Wrangled a Croc: The Serious Science of Modern Zoos"

Location: Ringhaver Student Center, Virginia Room

Time: 5:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.

Gen Anderson is the General Curator at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, the only zoo housing all 24 crocodilian species. Since starting as a zookeeper in 2000, she has advanced into leadership. She now oversees animal care, education, and conservation, and is known for her work supporting endangered species breeding and conservation programs

*This event is free and open to the public. Parking available at Flagler College Campus Services, 107 King St.

Registration Link is Coming Soon!

Keynote Speaker Meet and Greet Reception

Location: Ringhaver Student Center, Tinlin Landing

Time: 6:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.

Meet and welcome Gen Anderson. Ask questions about her involvement with the Alligator Farm and her interest in conservation efforts.

*This event is free and open to the public.

Registration Link is Coming Soon!

Science Symposium Capstone Presentations

Location: Ringhaver Student Center, Virginia Room

Time: 5:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.

Graduating seniors, (led by Professors Blonder, Brown, and McGinley) will showcase their semester-long research projects through oral presentations and videos to compete for Best Symposium Group Presentation Award.

*This event is free and open to the public. Parking available at Flagler College Campus Services, 107 King St.

Science Capstone Poster Presentations, Reception and Awards

Location: Jay's Place, Bailey Lounge, Back Lobby (Downstairs in Ringhaver Student Center)

Time: 7:45 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.

All are invited to attend as students from several science classes share research posters and compete for People’s Choice Poster Award. Winners of the faculty-selected MVP, Best Symposium Group Presentation, and People’s Choice Poster will be announced.

*This event is free and open to the public. Parking available at Flagler College Campus Services, 107 King St.

Presenting Sponsor

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